“I have strong concerns about the proposed USMCA; in particular, its ability to enforce and strengthen labor protections and environmental standards. Though I am glad to see this agreement adopt such a robust stance on freedom of association and am heartened that all signatory countries plan to meet their obligations to the International Labor Organization, I am worried about yet another free trade agreement that does not give voice to workers and does not provide a firm framework for improving labor laws in either the United States, Mexico, or Canada. Twenty years ago, NAFTA created a trade system that did not let workers lodge their own complaints and ultimately benefited corporations over working people. Unfortunately, the USMCA does nothing to break this cycle of abuse or properly address climate change with the urgency it deserves, and I am worried that the language used will never be put into practice. Instead of passing a top-down trade deal such as this, the United States should work with labor unions, workers’ groups, and environmental protection agencies across all three countries to develop a system that puts workers and the environment first and corporate profits second.”

David M. Higgins II

David M. Higgins was born in Baltimore and grew up in Southern Maryland. He has had a passion for journalism since high school. After spending many years in the Hospitality Industry he began working in Digital Marketing, eventually leading him back to his passion. David started The Southern Maryland Chronicle in December 2017 and has grown it to become the #1 news source in Southern Maryland.

The Southern Maryland Chronicle(SoMDC) is an all-digital news source for SoMD. We cover all of Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties; along with the Southern portions of Anne Arundel and Prince George’s County. SoMDC covers every aspect of the SoMD Region, and will to continue to grow with the community. SoMDC appreciates all feedback from the community, along with tips, pictures, articles contributed, and support.